Patriots lose stunner to Titans, 20-13, in first round of NFL playoffs

Washington Post ^ | January 4, 2020 | Sam Fortier

[EdnaMode]

A team quarterbacked by Ryan Tannehill beat Tom Brady’s Patriots in the playoffs in Foxborough. It was the second straight shocking loss for the Patriots, and it ended a season that started with so much promise and hope behind a historically good defense.

The Titans rode the NFL rushing champion, Derrick Henry, to the win. His 178 yards on the ground were the most for a player in the playoffs since Colin Kaepernick had 181 as the San Francisco 49ers’ quarterback in 2013.

This home loss in the wild-card is uncharacteristic for the Patriots. It prompts questions about the continued viability of a dynasty that began in 2001. One of the main characters, Brady, is now a free agent, and though it seems unlikely, it’s possible one of the greatest quarterbacks ever has played his last game with the only franchise he’s ever known.

[EdnaMode]

Colin is pathetic.

[GuavaCheesePuff]

I don’t think Belichick will want to coach, but he may.

He looks like the type that would be bored at home. He likes to study and focus on football.

[Dr. Sivana]

If he just runs out of bounds the game is over right there.

Maybe he wanted to punish everyone who bet on the Patriots in a teaser.

[Robert DeLong]

lost should be lose. 8>)

[RummyChick]

State Farm picked the right players to be in their commercial. Both are in the playoffs.

[dfwgator]

That’s where coaches need to remind their team that if they get a turnover, don’t score.

[petitfour]

I watched him walk out and congratulate Tannehill.

[Mr Fuji]

Yep, he should’ve retired after his last Super Bowl win and went out on top.

[EdnaMode]

They certainly did.

[Pearls Before Swine]

As an aside, it’s remarkable how Tannehill has flourished at Tennessee after tough years in Miami. Also, how much more effective he’s been than Mariota, who was a top pick and seemed to do well for a while.

And, I think Vrabel will be a great coach for TN.

[dfwgator]

Maybe he wanted to punish everyone who bet on the Patriots in a teaser.

And yet give the Patriots the only chance to still win the game, albeit the chances were remote.

[Williams]

I saw him talk to the other quarterback. Briefly.

[Dr. Sivana]

Edelman best receiver ever.

No. There are a LOT of wide receivers who were better. I'll just mention Jerry Rice for starters. Heck, some wouldn't even have him as the best PATS WR ever, giving that one to Randy Moss.

[RummyChick]

it must have been quick. Slater spent quite a bit of time with him and was smiling. Maybe he wants a new gig.

[dfwgator]

Nice to see at least one A&M QB do well in the league.

[dfwgator]

Fred Biletnikoff was better.

[bobby.223]

I saw it very clearly. Brady shook hands with and had a few words with the Titan’s QB.

[DOC44]

“Sore Loser Man walked off the field”

Somebody got their balls deflated again.

[Hatteras]

Haha, good for you, At least you have something to keep you warm this winter. Hold on to that thought.

[HIDEK6]

Love it. Belicek goes DOWN!